The running team representing the University of Defence in the Army Running League has claimed victory in all four races held so far in the unit team category and currently leads the standings. After finishing second overall last year, the team is well on track to achieve its goal of becoming this year’s overall winner. Rankings in each round are based on the total points earned by the five best runners in individual age categories.

“This year, we’ve strengthened the team with first-year students, and this new generation is really making us proud,” says Major Viktor Novotný from the Centre for Physical Education and Sports, who also serves as the team’s ambassador. Among the standout new additions to the men’s category are Privates Jakub Farský, Jan Horn, and Ondřej Lemberka. In the women’s category, Private Magdaléna Cetlová has been excelling alongside Sergeant Jana Dohnálková — the two consistently win their races, leaving little room for their rivals.

In the most recent race of the series — held on July 17 in Náměšť nad Oslavou, following earlier events in Brno, Jince, and Opava — the university team was boosted by its most successful athlete, Sergeant Michal Hroch. He secured 1st place and continued his strong season, having recently won the 800 m and placed second in the 1500 m at the Czech Academic Games. In the women’s race, Sergeant Jana Dohnálková was the overall winner, also setting a new course record.

Last year’s overall women’s champion, Corporal Šárka Somrová, is unfortunately unable to participate in this year’s Army Running League due to academic commitments and health issues. The team wishes her a speedy recovery and a smooth return.

The UO running team, currently composed of about thirty active members, looks ahead to the second half of the season with upcoming league races in Stará Boleslav, Bechyně, Lipník nad Bečvou, Přáslavice, and the November finale in Prague. They also plan to take part in the VOKOLOPRIGLU 2025 race, which rewards participants with scenic views of the “Brno Sea,” Veveří Castle, and the autumn-colored Podkomorské Forests. Other active movement enthusiasts are welcome to join as well.

Author: Viktor Sliva
Photo: Viktor Novotný